If you’re lucky enough to be in Wales as 2025 dawns, make the most of it and enjoy one of the wonderful Welsh New Year’s Eve events. And when New Year’s Eve is over, why not start 2025 in style with a bracing New Year’s Day dip? We’ve got all the information you need on these too!
So, here’s a quick rundown of New Year’s Eve 2024 firework displays and New Year’s Day dips in Wales.
New Year’s Eve fireworks in Wales
Tenby Fireworks in Pembrokeshire. The fireworks take place in Tudor Square and are free to attend. Meanwhile, in nearby Saundersfoot, you’ll find quieter, pet-friendly fireworks.
In Cardiff, head to the Winter Wonderland at City Hall Lawns and Cardiff Castle for a range of New Year’s Eve festivities and enjoy soaking up the atmosphere. With a bit of luck, there will be fireworks to see in 2025.
New Year’s Eve Street Parties in Wales
Celebrating 25 years, the Fishguard New Year’s Eve street party is widely agreed to be the best in Wales. Organised by the local community, the event takes place in the town square and features live music and entertainment, a raffle and plenty of food and drink via the local hostelries and licensed bars. Entry is by wristband and is just £6.
Llanwrtyd Wells New Year Walk-In
A wonderfully traditional event for all the family, with an element of mysticism! The annual short walk leaves Llanwrtyd Wells town square at 10pm on New Year’s Eve. Free to attend and no pre-booking needed.
Lit by burning torches, the procession follows the ‘Mari’, a decorated horse’s skull carried on a pole by the leader. At the destination, witness the re-enactment of the ancient Welsh tradition of ‘Mari Lwyd’ – an exchange of challenges and banter. When the reenactment is over, head back to the town square for more refreshment and to see in the New Year.
New Year’s Day Dips in Wales to begin 2025 with a splash!
There are New Year’s Day dips and charity swims across Wales this year. We can’t think of a better way to start 2025!
Mayor’s New Year’s Day Swim in Newport, Pembrokeshire. Starts from the Parrog where participants should meet at 11.45am ready for the midday swim. More information from Newport Boat Club. A bracing dip, followed by a hot shower and soup at the boat club!
Saundersfoot New Year’s Day swim is a very popular event held on Saundersfoot beach. Festivities start at 11am with the swim itself at 12.30pm this year. Check out the website for more information, including park & ride.
Whitesands New Year’s Day Charity Swim is in a stunning location. Arranged by the local Penknife Club to raise money for the Pothmawr Surf Life Saving Club and Shalom House Hospice, it’s another popular event. Registration at 11am, swim at 12 noon.
Abersoch RNLI New Year’s Day Dip is fancy dress! Come dressed in this year’s theme ‘Nautical Madness’ if you can! Pre-registration (£5 children, £10 adults) is essential for this one. Assemble on the beach from 11.30am, dip at 12noon. Participants receive a medal, and all proceeds go to the local RNLI.
RNLI Porthdinllaen New Year’s Day Dip is a fun event for all the family. The dip happens on Morfa Nefyn main beach (Bwlch) at 12pm. Register in advance or on the day registration is available from 9.45am at The Cliffs Free House. The cost is £10 per adult and £5 per child for those participating, which includes a medal. All proceeds will go towards the Porthdinllaen Lifeboat.
Happy New Year!
Whatever you decide to do to see in 2025, the Holidays Wales team wish you a very Happy New Year and we hope to see you in Wales in 2025!
